In 1936, voters decided to build a new school in Felchville (Reading Village) rather than repair the old school.The Reading Elementary School opened the following year.The other schools in town closed until only Bailey's Mills, South Reading, and Felchville remained.Over the next few decades the number and configuration of schools changed until 1983 when the Felchville school became strictly elementary, housing grades Kindergarten through sixth. In 1989, the Woodstock Union High School District accepted Reading as it newest member.Reading updated and renovated its last remaining school (Felchville) in 1995, while maintaining the multi-age classroom philosophy.It is the only remaining school of the 13 original schools serving the town of Reading.
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There are some very special people in the Reading community. I thought I’d mention just a few of them today (at the same time knowing there are many, many more.) A short time ago, we at RES were in need of sleds to replace broken ones used at recess time. Tim Bishop and the Recreation Commission not only provided us with new sleds, but also purchased one for EVERY student to take home and keep! Carol Anderson had asked me about needs which youngsters might have (non-academic/ non-athletic) and we discussed the matter. Carol and her husband, Howard, sent me a check for $2000 to start a fund to use for any such needs—and they will keep the fund replenished! As if that wasn’t enough by itself, Carol also purchased hundreds of dollars worth of winter clothing to be given to any child in need or kept at school to be used as needs arise. Sue Joyal was a great help in this regard as well. These are remarkable examples of what can be done to support children and families. I met Carol through my role as a member of the Reading Food Shelf Board. The Board’s other members are Hazel King, Sara Norcross, Rev. Bill Sheldon and Sue Joyal. The Board holds its meetings at our School. I mention this for two reasons. First, all of these people are outstanding individuals who care about our youth and our families in Reading. Secondly, they not only do an outstanding job of keeping the Food Shelf stocked and running, but they also directly impact the School. For example, the Board agreed to collaborate with us in purchasing food for our breakfast/lunch programs. Also, the Board is going to assist us regarding any unpaid bills which our breakfast/lunch programs may have at year’s end. Additionally, the Board keeps me aware of programs related to food –programs of which I might not otherwise be aware. Conversely, we at RES keep the Board informed regarding programs whereby our interests may be similar. Our Farm-to-School program is one example. In summary, the true spirit of community is alive and well in Reading, and I am so very pleased to know that people in Reading care so much for our children.
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